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There could be a shortage of lifesaving equipment in New Jersey. Who decides who gets it?

Who will decide which patients receive a ventilator or other lifesaving equipment if New Jersey runs out of available units?

New Jersey is creating an advisory committee to weigh these bioethical questions. It will meet early this week, with input from the Medical Society of New Jersey and retired state epidemiologist Eddy Bresnitz, Persichilli announced Thursday.

"Perhaps the most difficult question to answer and be responsive to, and that is the one: 'What happens if we don’t have enough ventilators to take care of the patients that we have?' " Persichilli said. "That is, I would have to say, one of the more difficult issues that we will be discussing."

New Jersey's hospitals currently have 2,000 critical care beds and need to double that number to meet a surge in coronavirus patients, Persichilli said. Each bed should have a ventilator, a machine that helps move air into the lungs, so the state asked the federal government for an additional 2,300 from the nation's stockpile.

"We believe we’ll be fine handling the critical care surge," Persichilli said. "Three of our CEOs from the largest [hospital] systems are prepared for that. And that hopefully will be in a couple of weeks, so we can deal with it and see how all of our plans are working, which we believe they will be fine.

"Ventilators are another story," she said. "We believe right now we have enough ventilators. If a surge results in more individuals needing ventilators than our projections, we certainly need to get ventilators in our reserve. We will push that. That's what we need."

New Jersey's U.S. senators and members of Congress wrote that the state has received only a fraction of help from the federal government compared with what officials have requested. Here is what New Jersey received and what it requested:

N95 respirators: 169,155 received. 4.5 million requested.

Face/surgical masks: 402,959 received. 864,000 requested.

Face shields: 76,731 received. 1.3 million requested.

Surgical gowns: 62,560 received. 1.4 million requested.

Coveralls: 320 received. 864,000 requested.

Gloves: 222,755 received. 2.2 million requested.

Ventilators: 4 received. 2,500 requested.

Gov. Phil Murphy said Friday that there is no evidence any company is making ventilators in New Jersey, and that the state is looking to buy them. They cost about $20,000 a piece, Murphy said.

The state surveyed all ambulatory surgery centers, stopped all elective procedures as of March 27 at 5 p.m. and called on all businesses, non-hospital health care facilities and colleges to tell the state how many ventilators, respirators and anesthesia ventilators they have by that same time. Anesthesia ventilators can easily be converted to respirators, and New Jersey has more than 1,000 such machines, Persichilli said. They should submit that information to covid19.nj.gov/ppereport.

"But I do want to make sure that everyone understands that we are doing everything possible to make sure that we do not get into that situation," Persichilli said, referring to having to choose which patient lives or dies.

But in case this resource allocation and other measures are not enough, New Jersey has to be prepared.

Inspiration from New York guidelines

The Medical Society of New Jersey's committee on biomedical ethics met on March 19 and submitted recommendations about what the state would do in case of a shortage of lifesaving equipment. The committee has been around 30 to 40 years and has close to 40 members, including clergy, physicians, social workers, lawyers and nurses, said CEO Larry Downs.

"We are hopeful that the stay-at-home orders, social distancing policies and discipline to comply with that should not cause these policies to ever be put into place," Downs prefaced. "We’re doing this in an abundance of caution to be prepared in the event that we do have an overwhelming of our health care system. We don’t think that’s imminent, but it's much better to have a thoughtful process set out before you get into the throes of an emergency."

Downs said that when the final plans are decided, they should be shared with the public, but he could not go into specifics about what the committee gave state health officials.

He said they considered triage criteria for resources and patients, legal protections for health care providers to make these difficult decisions and support for health care workers who are under moral or emotional distress. He also noted there should be consistency throughout the region, and people shouldn't be getting different levels of care just based on where they are in the state.

The committee sought inspiration from the New York State Task Force's 272-page guidelines for ventilator usage updated in 2015 to prepare for an influenza epidemic. The framework aims to "balance the goal of saving the most lives with important societal values, such as protecting vulnerable populations," the New York State Department of Health announced when it released the plan.

According to New York's guidelines, a "triage officer or committee" will decide who receives or will continue to receive ventilator therapy. The person who decides will not be patients' attending physicians, in order to prevent a conflict of interest.

Patients "who have the highest likelihood of survival with ventilator therapy" are prioritized. The decision-making process should never consider factors like "race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, advanced age, perceived quality of life, ability to pay, role in the community, or other subjective criteria." The task force weighed and rejected approaches like first-come-first-served or a lottery as being too subjective and not able to save the most lives.

An older patient's age should not be a triage factor, as "there are many instances where an older person could have a better clinical outlook than a younger person," the report said. But if two patients have the same likelihood of survival, young age (17 years or younger) can be used as a "tiebreaker" in limited cases because of a "strong societal preference for saving children."

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Paramus First Responders including Lt. James Teehan, from Paramus Detective Division, who came up with the idea of holding an appreciation “clap out”, holds up a placard at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ on 04/14/20. Their intention is for our health care partners to know how much they are appreciated for their efforts in battling this Covid- 19 pandemic. Mitsu Yasukawa/Northjersey.com

Paramus First Responders including Lt. James Teehan(L), from Paramus Detective Division, who came up with the idea of holding an appreciation “clap out”, holds up a placard at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ on 04/14/20. Mitsu Yasukawa/Northjersey.com

A group of hospital workers have their picture taken as Paramus First Responders hold an appreciation “clap out” at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ on 04/14/20. Mitsu Yasukawa/Northjersey.com

James Tedesco Bergen County Executive, who was quarantined, is seen together with Paramus First Responders who are holding an appreciation “clap out” at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ on 04/14/20. Mitsu Yasukawa/Northjersey.com

Alex Saldana, 13, a Boy Scout in Oradell Troop 36 and a Life Scout, plays the Marine Corps Hymn and Taps in front of the New Jersey Veterans Home in Paramus on Thursday April 09, 2020. Saldana plays to honor the 37 military veterans who have died at the the New Jersey Veteran's Home in the past two weeks. At least 10 veterans died from the coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK

Alex Saldana, 13, a Boy Scout in Oradell Troop 36 and a Life Scout, plays the Marine Corps Hymn and Taps in front of the New Jersey Veterans Home in Paramus on Thursday April 09, 2020. Saldana plays to honor the 37 military veterans who have died at the the New Jersey Veteran's Home in the past two weeks. At least 10 veterans died from the coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK

Alex Saldana, 13, a Boy Scout in Oradell Troop 36 and a Life Scout, plays the Marine Corps Hymn and Taps in front of the New Jersey Veterans Home in Paramus on Thursday April 09, 2020. Saldana plays to honor the 37 military veterans who have died at the the New Jersey Veteran's Home in the past two weeks. At least 10 veterans died from the coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK

Alex Saldana, 13, a Boy Scout in Oradell Troop 36 and a Life Scout, plays the Marine Corps Hymn and Taps in front of the New Jersey Veterans Home in Paramus on Thursday April 09, 2020. Saldana plays to honor the 37 military veterans who have died at the the New Jersey Veteran's Home in the past two weeks. At least 10 veterans died from the coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK

Alex Saldana, 13, a Boy Scout in Oradell Troop 36 and a Life Scout, plays the Marine Corps Hymn and Taps in front of the New Jersey Veterans Home in Paramus on Thursday April 09, 2020. Saldana plays to honor the 37 military veterans who have died at the the New Jersey Veteran's Home in the past two weeks. At least 10 veterans died from the coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK

Alex Saldana, 13, a Boy Scout in Oradell Troop 36 and a Life Scout, plays the Marine Corps Hymn and Taps in front of the New Jersey Veterans Home in Paramus on Thursday April 09, 2020. Saldana plays to honor the 37 military veterans who have died at the the New Jersey Veteran's Home in the past two weeks. At least 10 veterans died from the coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK

Bask Bar & Grill in Woodland Park, NJ is adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic by giving away gift bags when people place an order for pick-up or delivery. Some of the items include toilet paper, paper towels or T-shirts. Owner Steve Baskinger also has a business where he rents out a fire truck for parties called Fire Party Patrol. Baskinger drives the truck to a drive by birthday party. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com

Bask Bar & Grill in Woodland Park, NJ is adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic by giving away gift bags when people place an order for pick-up or delivery. Some of the items include toilet paper, paper towels or T-shirts. Owner Steve Baskinger also has a business where he rents out a fire truck for parties called Fire Party Patrol. Baskinger drives the truck to a drive by birthday party. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com

Bask Bar & Grill in Woodland Park, NJ is adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic by giving away gift bags when people place an order for pick-up or delivery. Some of the items include toilet paper, paper towels or T-shirts. Owner Steve Baskinger chats while leaning on a box of paper towels on Wednesday April 08, 2020. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Bask Bar & Grill in Woodland Park, NJ is adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic by giving away gift bags when people place an order for pick-up or delivery. Some of the items include toilet paper, paper towels or T-shirts. Owner Steve Baskinger poses for a photo with some of the gift bag items on Wednesday April 08, 2020. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Cecilia Soheily and her mother, Brenda Pillari, take a break from painting encouraging messages on stones — a project that has raised the spirits of their neighbors in North Haledon during the coronavirus pandemic. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com

Steve Baskinger has a business where he rents out a fire truck for parties called Fire Party Patrol. Sue Weintraub reacts having successfully surprised her son Max Weintraub on his 20th birthday on Wednesday April 08, 2020 in Montclair, NJ. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Saint Elizabeth Church in Wyckoff, NJ offers a livestream of prayer services on Friday March 20, 2020. The church remains empty due to the coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Elianna Monsanto puts groceries onto the conveyer belt at ShopRite in Passaic, NJ on Friday March 27, 2020. Monsanto is one of approximately 133,200 New Jersey residents on the WIC public health program. Those on WIC have an especially hard time since the items they are able to buy with their WIC check are limited to begin with. There are only certain designated â€œWIC eligibleâ€œ products they can purchase. Last week Monsanto had to go several places to find the food and items she needs for her baby girl. However this week WIC has opened up more options because of the COVID-19 outbreak panic buying. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Saint Elizabeth Church in Wyckoff, NJ offers a livestream of prayer services on Friday March 20, 2020. (From left) Parochial Vicar Vincent D’Agostino and Pastor Stephen Fichter lead the mass in an empty church due to coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Steven Mather of Bischoff's ice cream shop in Teaneck, NJ wipes down the counter on Thursday March 19, 2020. Bischoff's and other local stores are trying to adapt to new complications due to the Coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey - USA TODAY NETWORK

Elianna Monsanto walks by empty shelves as sge shops for groceries at ShopRite in Passaic, NJ on Friday March 27, 2020. Monsanto is one of approximately 133,200 New Jersey residents on the WIC public health program. Those on WIC have an especially hard time since the items they are able to buy with their WIC check are limited to begin with. There are only certain designated “WIC eligible“ products they can purchase. Last week Monsanto had to go several places to find the food and items she needs for her baby girl. However this week WIC has opened up more options because of the COVID-19 outbreak panic buying. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

The empty bread shelves as Elianna Monsanto shops for groceries at ShopRite in Passaic, NJ on Friday March 27, 2020. Monsanto is one of approximately 133,200 New Jersey residents on the WIC public health program. Those on WIC have an especially hard time since the items they are able to buy with their WIC check are limited to begin with. There are only certain designated “WIC eligible“ products they can purchase. Last week Monsanto had to go several places to find the food and items she needs for her baby girl. However this week WIC has opened up more options because of the COVID-19 outbreak panic buying. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

An outbreak of coronavirus disease at the New Jersey Veterans Home in Paramus has killed at least 10 residents and likely contributed to the deaths of some 27 more over the past two weeks. Outside the New Jersey Veterans Home on Wednesday, April 8, 2020. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Dr. Jim Pruden is discharged from St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson on Wednesday, April 8, 2020. Pruden, a doctor at St Joseph's University Medical Center, was in critical condition with coronavirus. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Dr. Jim Pruden is discharged from St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson on Wednesday, April 8, 2020. Pruden, a doctor at St Joseph's University Medical Center, was in critical condition with coronavirus. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

A bagpipe player waits for Dr. Jim Pruden to be discharged from St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson on Wednesday, April 8, 2020. Pruden, a doctor at St Joseph's University Medical Center, was in critical condition with coronavirus. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Dr. Jim Pruden is discharged from St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson on Wednesday, April 8, 2020. Pruden, a doctor at St Joseph's University Medical Center, was in critical condition with coronavirus. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dover, NJ will be one of the churches that will be empty this Easter on April 12, 2020 due to the guidelines of no large gatherings due to the corona virus. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dover, NJ will be one of the churches that will be empty this Easter on April 12, 2020 due to the guidelines of no large gatherings due to the corona virus. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Governor Phil Murphy looks around after he toured the Edison Field Medical Station at the site of the NJ Convention & Exposition Center in Edison, NJ on April 8, 2020. The Exposition Center was converted into a makeshift hospital to handle a possible overflow of patients due to the stress on healthcare facilities due to the spread of COVID-19. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Governor Phil Murphy arrives along with Senator Corey Booker before they toured the Edison Field Medical Station at the site of the NJ Convention & Exposition Center in Edison, NJ on April 8, 2020. The Exposition Center was converted into a makeshift hospital to handle a possible overflow of patients due to the stress on healthcare facilities due to the spread of COVID-19. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Governor Phil Murphy and Senator Corey Booker listen to NJ State Police Commander Marc Pellegrino describe the new facility as they toured the Edison Field Medical Station at the site of the NJ Convention & Exposition Center in Edison, NJ on April 8, 2020. The Exposition Center was converted into a makeshift hospital to handle a possible overflow of patients due to the stress on healthcare facilities due to the spread of COVID-19. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Senator Corey Booker and Governor Phil Murphy tour the Edison Field Medical Station at the site of the NJ Convention & Exposition Center in Edison, NJ on April 8, 2020. The Exposition Center was converted into a makeshift hospital to handle a possible overflow of patients due to the stress on healthcare facilities due to the spread of COVID-19. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Yellow tape surrounds the playground next to Mayor Johnson Park in Passaic, NJ as it remains closed on Tuesday April 07, 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

The basketball hoops have been removed from the courts at Weasel Brook Park in Clifton, NJ as it remains closed on Tuesday April 07, 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A sign and barricade near the entrance to Riverside County Park in Lyndhurst, NJ as it remains closed on Tuesday April 07, 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

The basketball hoops have been removed from the courts at Weasel Brook Park in Clifton, NJ as it remains closed on Tuesday April 07, 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A sign and barricade near the entrance to Riverside County Park in Lyndhurst, NJ as it remains closed on Tuesday April 07, 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy orders flags across New Jersey to be lowered half mast to honor those who died due to COVID-19 complications. An American flag in East Rutherford, NJ flies at half mast on Friday April 03, 2020. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy orders flags across New Jersey to be lowered half mast to honor those who died due to COVID-19 complications. The American flag in Palisades Park, NJ flies at half mast on Friday April 03, 2020. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy orders flags across New Jersey to be lowered half mast to honor those who died due to COVID-19 complications. A group of three American flags in Rutherford, NJ flies at half mast on Friday April 03, 2020. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy orders flags across New Jersey to be lowered half mast to honor those who died due to COVID-19 complications. An American flag in Hackensack, NJ flies at half mast on Friday April 03, 2020. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Passaic fire fighter Israel Tolentino, 33 who passed away from complications of COVID-19, was laid to rest at East RidgeLawn Cemetery on Thursday, April 2, 2020. Roses are placed on his casket at the cemetery by a small group allowed to gather to pay their last respects. Amy Newman/NorthJersey.com

Passaic firefighter Israel Tolentino, 33 who passed away from complications of COVID-19, was laid to rest at East RidgeLawn Cemetery on Thursday, April 2, 2020. Due to social distancing rules, all firefighter and first responders stayed in their vehicles prior to the funeral procession for Israel Tolentino. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

(Center) Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps member and trustee Baruch Silberstein and TVAC member Joseph Kaplan put on protective suits at headquarters before responding to a call on Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Teaneck is a coronavirus hotspot and TVAC, which relies completely on donations to operate, has seen a drastic rise in call volume and the cost of personal protective equipment. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

(Center) Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps Captain Jacob Finkelstein and TVAC member Joe Harris place a patient into an ambulance on Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Teaneck is a coronavirus hotspot and TVAC, which relies completely on donations to operate, has seen a drastic rise in call volume and the cost of personal protective equipment. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps probationary member Janmesh Rana at TVAC headquarters on Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Teaneck is a coronavirus hotspot and TVAC, which relies completely on donations to operate, has seen a drastic rise in call volume and the cost of personal protective equipment. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps member Eitan Spiewak wears a yarmulke with a TVAC logo on Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Teaneck is a coronavirus hotspot and TVAC, which relies completely on donations to operate, has seen a drastic rise in call volume and the cost of personal protective equipment. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps member and trustee Baruch Silberstein at TVAC headquarters before responding to a call on Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Teaneck is a coronavirus hotspot and TVAC, which relies completely on donations to operate, has seen a drastic rise in call volume and the cost of personal protective equipment. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps member and trustee Baruch Silberstein responds to a call on Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Teaneck is a coronavirus hotspot and TVAC, which relies completely on donations to operate, has seen a drastic rise in call volume and the cost of personal protective equipment. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Corps member Leah Kahan responds to a call on Anna Street on Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Teaneck is a coronavirus hotspot and TVAC, which relies completely on donations to operate, has seen a drastic rise in call volume and the cost of personal protective equipment. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

A view of the USNS Comfort from Weehawken as it travels the Hudson River to Pier 90 in Manhattan on March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A view of the USNS Comfort from Weehawken as it travels the Hudson River to Pier 90 in Manhattan on Monday March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

People watch the USNS Comfort from Weehawken as it travels the Hudson River to Pier 90 in Manhattan on Monday March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A view of the USNS Comfort from Weehawken as it travels the Hudson River to Pier 90 in Manhattan on Monday March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Debra Green runs with an American flag in Liberty State park in Jersey City, NJ as the USNS Comfort travels the Hudson River to Pier 90 in Manhattan on Monday March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A view of the USNS Comfort from Weehawken as it travels the Hudson River to Pier 90 in Manhattan on Monday March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A view of the USNS Comfort from Weehawken as it travels the Hudson River to Pier 90 in Manhattan on Monday March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A view of the USNS Comfort from Jersey City as it travels the Hudson River to Pier 90 in Manhattan on Monday March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A view of the USNS Comfort from Jersey City as it passes the Statue of Liberty on the way to Pier 90 in Manhattan on Monday March 30, 2020. The floating hospital is meant for patients who aren't diagnosed with COVID-19 to ease the pressure on New York hospitals. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

Zellie Thomas, a Paterson school teacher and community activist, on left, is organizing the delivery of free hot dinners to senior citizens in Paterson who are too scared or unable to get out during the coronavirus pandemic. Thomas reviews delivery locations with volunteer Dora Valencia on Sunday evening March 29, 2020 outside of their meal pick-up spot at Wize Guys Pizza in Clifton. Thomas is funding the meals through donations. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Volunteer Dora Valencia, of Paterson, on right, delivers free hot meals to senior citizens living in the Joseph Masiello Homes in Paterson who are too scared or unable to get out during the coronavirus pandemic. A group of volunteers organized by Paterson school teacher and community activist Zellie Thomas delivered close to 100 meals to seniors on Sunday evening March 29, 2020 in Paterson. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Volunteer Justin Rucker of Paterson, picks up meals from Rocco Hamdan co-owner of Wize Guys Pizzeria in Clifton on Sunday, March 29, 2020. Zellie Thomas, not pictured, a Paterson school teacher, is organizing the delivery of hot dinners to senior citizens in Paterson who are too scared or unable to get out during the coronavirus pandemic. Thomas is supporting the effort through fundraising. A group of volunteers working with Thomas delivered close to 100 meals to seniors on Sunday evening. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Zellie Thomas, center, a Paterson school teacher and community activist, organizes the deliver of hot dinners to senior citizens in Paterson outside of Wize Guys Pizza in Clifton after picking up meals. The meal are for seniors who are too scared or unable to get out during the coronavirus pandemic. Thomas is supporting the effort through fundraising. A group of volunteers working with Thomas delivered close to 100 meals to seniors on Sunday evening March 29, 2020 in Paterson. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Zellie Thomas, a Paterson school teacher and community activist, is organizing the delivery of hot dinners to senior citizens in Paterson who are too scared or unable to get out during the coronavirus pandemic. Thomas waits for a wheelchair bound senior to answer her door in Paterson on Sunday evening March 29, 2020 in Paterson. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Zellie Thomas, not pictured, a Paterson school teacher and community activist, is organizing the delivery of free hot dinners to senior citizens in Paterson who are too scared or unable to get out during the coronavirus pandemic. A group of volunteers, including Dora Valencia and Taj Taylor, delivered close to 100 meals to seniors on Sunday evening March 29, 2020 in Paterson. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Katie during a protest demanding the release of ICE detainees at the Bergen County Jail on Friday, March 27, 2020. Earlier in the week a detainee tested positive for COVID-19. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Victoria and her daughter during a protest demanding the release of ICE detainees at the Bergen County Jail on Friday, March 27, 2020. Earlier in the week a detainee tested positive for COVID-19. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Detainees at the Bergen County Jail look out at protestors demanding the release of ICE detainees on Friday, March 27, 2020. Earlier in the week a detainee tested positive for COVID-19. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

Garret Mountain County Park, overlooking the city of Paterson, attracted large numbers of visitors getting out of their self quarantine from the danger of the corona virus to take advantage of the warm Spring like weather. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Garret Mountain County Park, overlooking the city of Paterson, attracted large numbers of visitors getting out of their self quarantine from the danger of the corona virus to take advantage of the warm Spring like weather. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Garret Mountain County Park, overlooking the city of Paterson, attracted large numbers of visitors getting out of their self quarantine from the danger of the corona virus to take advantage of the warm Spring like weather. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Garret Mountain County Park, overlooking the city of Paterson, attracted large numbers of visitors getting out of their self quarantine from the danger of the corona virus to take advantage of the warm Spring like weather. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Garret Mountain County Park, overlooking the city of Paterson, attracted large numbers of visitors getting out of their self quarantine from the danger of the corona virus to take advantage of the warm Spring like weather. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Broad street during the morning rush hour is almost deserted in downtown Newark, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

Very light traffic on local streets around downtown Montclair, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

Very light traffic on Bloomfield Ave in downtown Montclair, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

A car is able to do a u-turn on a four lanes of very light traffic on Bloomfield Ave in downtown Montclair, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

Very light traffic on Bloomfield Ave in downtown Montclair, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

Broad street during the morning rush hour is almost deserted in downtown Newark, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

Broad street during the morning rush hour is almost deserted in downtown Newark, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

Broad street during the morning rush hour is almost deserted in downtown Newark, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

East Ridgewood Ave is deserted in downtown Ridgewood, N.J. on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

The parking lot at the Ridgewood Train Station is deserted on Thursday March 26, 2020. Residents in New Jersey have been asked to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Tariq Zehawi and Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com

Clients of the CUMAC Food bank in Paterson, NJ on March 25, 2020 give their food list to CUMAC staff member, Katherine Guerrero so they can get their groceries. Because of the Covid-19 outbreak those coming to collect food wait outside and have their food brought to them by a staff member as to enhance distancing. After an initial drop in consumption by clients out of fear from coming out due to the virus, it has picked up steadily over the past several days. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

A bus turns the corner onto Garden State Plaza Blvd. from West Passaic St. to enter the parking lot of Garden State Plaza Mall in Rochelle Park on March 25, 2020. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Attendants at the Valvoline Oil Change on West Passaic St. in Rochelle Park on March 25, 2020 look to attract business to their workplace. Linda, Eric and Charlie are classified as essential workers, trying to keep cars on the road during the shutdown due to the corona virus. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Manny Moreira, in the empty dining room of Nanni Ristorante of Rochelle Park, NJ on March 25, 2020. His restaurant is empty due to the shutdown from the effects of the corona virus outbreak. Business is down 95% says owner Manny Moreira as they can only sell take out. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

A pile of masks is seen as a worker continues to make masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

Workers making masks at LBU inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

A close up of a worker sewing masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

Workers making masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

Workers making masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

A worker holds up a line of masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020.
Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

A close up of a worker sewing masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

Workers making masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020.
Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

A close up of a worker making masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Until a week ago, LBU., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

Workers making masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020.
Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

A close up of a worker trimming the edge of a mask at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

Workers making masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020.
Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

Close up of various masks at LBU Inc., in Paterson, NJ on Wednesday March 25, 2020.
Until a week ago, LBU Inc., was manufacturing backpacks and cosmetic supply cases. Now it's churning out 100,000 protective masks a week, with plans to double that capacity by next week. Mitsu Yasukawa/ Northjersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

A Passaic County Health Department official puts on his protective equipment on at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Volunteers at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Volunteers at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Volunteers at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Volunteers gather before the 9AM opening of the William Paterson University site for Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Volunteers gather before the 9AM opening of the William Paterson University site for Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Peopl wait inside their vehicles behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

William Paterson University is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Cars wait behind a police barricade at William Paterson University, which is the newest site of Covid-19 testing for Passaic County residents only with a doctorÕs prescription in Wayne, N.J. on Wednesday March 25, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

Starr Morrison an employee with the Paterson Department of Education gives lunch and breakfast to Paterson residents as they come to pick up the food for children who are at home due to the closing of schools. The location is at Paterson Fire Dept. Headquarters on March 24, 2020 as New Jersey tries to stop the spread of Covid-19. This is part of the lunch and breakfast program for Ward 2 as the location moves to School 7 next week. Lunches for the whole five day week will be given out on Mondays and Wednesdays 10am-1pm. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

The Ralston section of Route 24 in Mendham Twp. New Jersey, NJ on March 24, 2020 where signs warn motorists as New Jersey attempts to stop the effects Covid-19. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

New York City is the epicenter for the coronavirus in the United States. Gov. Andrew Cuomo reported 25,665 cases in New York on March 24, 2020. Times Square on Wednesday evening is deserted. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

New York City is the epicenter for the coronavirus in the United States. Gov. Andrew Cuomo reported 25,665 cases in New York on March 24, 2020. Times Square on Wednesday evening is deserted, a man takes a picture on his phone in the middle of Broadway. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

It’s usually crowded on South St. during lunch hour but today there’s room to run in Morristown, NJ on March 24, 2020 as New Jersey attempts to stop the effects Covid-19. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

Sandy Richardson of Teaneck waits at 1:06 a.m. outside of the entrance to Bergen Community College, where a drive-thru coronavirus testing center will open at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2020. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

John Dougherty of Bloomfield waits at 3:12 a.m. outside of the entrance to Bergen Community College, where a drive-thru coronavirus testing center will open at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2020. Michael Karas/NorthJersey.com

A group of empty parking spaces on the normally busy Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair, NJ. Montclair is unusually quiet due to the coronavirus on Tuesday March 24, 2020. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A sign in front of a cafe on Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair, NJ says "You Are Safe We don't serve Corona." The normally bustling town remains quiet due to coronavirus. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

The normally chaotic intersection of Church Street, Bloomfield Avenue and South Fullerton in Montclair, NJ remains empty on Tuesday March 24, 2020 due to the COVID-19 lockdown. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

A man walks by Clairidge Bowtie Cinemas along Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair, NJ on Tuesday March 24, 2020. The movie theater as well as any 'non-essential' businesses are closed due to the COVID-19 lockdown. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

People on Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair wave to their friends and cats in the apartments above recently. Social distancing due to the coronavirus has led to creative ways of socializing. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay at home order, and playgrounds like this one are closed in Hackensack, N.J. on Monday March 23, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay at home order, has brought traffic to a trickle on Essex St in Hackensack, N.J. on Monday March 23, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay at home order, has brought traffic to a trickle on Main St in Hackensack, N.J. on Monday March 23, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay at home order, has closed all non-essentials businesses closed on Main St in Hackensack, N.J. on Monday March 23, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay at home order, has closed all non-essentials businesses closed on Main St in Hackensack, N.J. on Monday March 23, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay at home order, which has brought traffic to a trickle on Route 46 in Lodi, N.J. on Monday morning March 23, 2020. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

A woman uses an umbrella to shield herself from the snow and sleet as she walks past Cava restaurant in Paramus, where only takeout and delivery options are available, on March 23, 2020. In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay-at-home order and told nonessential businesses to close. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

A woman walks around the shelter of Wild Duck Pond Area of Saddle River County Park in Ridgewood, N.J. on Monday March 23, 2020. In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay at home order. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

A man walks around the pond at the Wild Duck Pond Area of Saddle River County Park in Ridgewood, N.J. on Monday March 23, 2020. In response to the coronavirus, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statewide stay at home order. Tariq Zehawi/NorthJersey.com

First Bethel AME Church in Paterson conducts a worship service in the church's parking lot, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Reverend Allan Boyer of First Bethel AME Church in Paterson conducts a service in the church's parking lot, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

First Bethel AME Church in Paterson conducts a service in the church's parking lot, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus on March 22, 2020. Fred Tremble prays during the service. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

First Bethel AME Church in Paterson conducts an outside worship service, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Yvette Bryant-Clanton of Paterson puts on a mask before joining an outdoor worship service at First Bethel AME Church in Paterson on March 22, 2020. The church set up chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing recommendations from the CDC to help prevent spreading of the coronavirus COVID-19. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Reverend Allan Boyer of First Bethel AME Church in Paterson conducts a service in the church's parking lot, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Reverend Allan Boyer of First Bethel AME Church in Paterson deliver his sermon in the church's parking lot, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

First Bethel AME Church in Paterson conducts an outside worship service, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spreading of the coronavirus on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Reverend Allan Boyer of First Bethel AME Church in Paterson conducts a service in the church's parking lot, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Shirley Cox of First Bethel AME Church in Paterson attends services in the church's parking lot, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Reverend Allan Boyer of First Bethel AME Church in Paterson conducts a service in the church's parking lot, keeping chairs six feet apart in accordance with social distancing practice recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus on March 22, 2020. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Daily routines must continue, Sammy Irizarry of Passaic, wears a mask and gloves as a precaution against COVID-19 while washing his clothes at Tri-City Laundromat on Sunday, March 22, 2020. Irizarry has preexisting health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure and is still working. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Daily routines must continue, Sammy Irizarry of Passaic, wears a mask and gloves as a precaution against COVID-19 while washing his clothes at Tri-City Laundromat on Sunday, March 22, 2020. Irizarry has preexisting health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure and is still working. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Daily routines must continue, Sammy Irizarry of Passaic, wears a mask and gloves as a precaution against COVID-19 while washing his clothes at Tri-City Laundromat on Sunday, March 22, 2020. Irizarry has preexisting health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure and is still working. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Daily routines must continue, Luis Correa and his brother Sammy Irizarry of Passaic, wearing a mask and gloves as a precaution against COVID-19 wash clothes at Tri-City Laundromat on Sunday, March 22, 2020. Irizarry has preexisting health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure and is still working. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Daily routines must continue, Sammy Irizarry of Passaic, wears a mask and gloves as a precaution against COVID-19, while doing his laundry at Tri-City Laundromat on Sunday, March 22, 2020. Irizarry has preexisting health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure and is still working. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Daily routines must continue, Luis Correa and his brother Sammy Irizarry of Passaic, wearing a mask and gloves as a precaution against COVID-19, pour fabric softener for their laundry at Tri-City Laundromat on Sunday, March 22, 2020. Irizarry has preexisting health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure and is still working. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Daily routines must continue, Sammy Irizarry of Passaic, wears a mask and gloves as a precaution against COVID-19, while rolling his sneakers to the dryer at Tri-City Laundromat on Sunday, March 22, 2020. Irizarry has preexisting health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure and is still working. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Daily routines must continue, Luis Correa and his brother Sammy Irizarry of Passaic, wearing a mask and gloves as a precaution against COVID-19 wash clothes at Tri-City Laundromat on Sunday, March 22, 2020. Irizarry has preexisting health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure and is still working. AMY NEWMAN, NORTHJERSEY.COM/ USA TODAY NETWORK

Only one person (lower left), can be seen on Varick St, in front of the Jersey City skyline and the colorful antenna of One World Trade Center at 9:11pm on Saturday.
Gov. Murphy announced an executive order Saturday to tell New Jersey residents to stay home starting at 9pm, except for essential business. Saturday, March 21, 2020 Kevin R. Wexler/NorthJersey.com

A little boy takes a break from riding in his vehicle to gaze at the sky along a path in Overpeck County Park in Ridgefield Park, NJ on Saturday March 21, 2020. Anne-Marie Caruso/NorthJersey.com - USA TODAY NETWORK

The daily briefing by Governor Phil Murphy and members of his staff discussing the corona virus at Rutgers University in Newark on March 21, 2020 so as to give more room for “social distancing” to members of the media and his experts being interviewed. Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA Today Network

What is the process for deciding who gets a ventilator? New York's guidelines say patients without a medical condition "that will result in immediate or near-immediate mortality even with aggressive ventilator" are eligible.

Then, people are prioritized if they have a "moderate risk of mortality" and for which a ventilator "would most likely be lifesaving."

Patients are assessed 48 hours and 120 hours after receiving a ventilator to see whether they should continue with the treatment.

It is unclear how many of New York's guidelines the Medical Society of New Jersey recommended to the state, and what the state will include in its guidelines.

NorthJersey.com reached out to hospitals in North Jersey and asked about what policies, if any, they had in place in case they ran out of health care equipment. Most did not respond to requests for comment.

“We are working with Level I Trauma-Designated hospitals, which are coordinating efforts to organize our state health care resources, as we prepare for the anticipated surge of COVID-19 patients,” said Donnalee Corrieri at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center.

How other states decide, cope

In Michigan, a draft letter was leaked from the Henry Ford Health System that the hospital wrote as part of its emergency response planning, in case it runs out of ventilators or intensive care unit beds.

In the draft letter, addressed to its patients, families and community: “Patients who have the best chance of getting better are our first priority. Patients will be evaluated for the best plan for care, and dying patients will be provided comfort care.”

Conditions that could make patients ineligible for critical care include “severe heart, lung, kidney or liver failure; terminal cancer; or severe trauma or burns," the letter says.

Pennsylvania is drafting "crisis standard of care" guidelines that have not been made public. But the Philadelphia Inquirer spoke with a physician who saw the draft, who said it doesn't include hard and fast rules based on age or preexisting conditions.

“It’s a combination of how critically ill a patient is and determining how long and whether they would benefit from ventilator treatment and prognosis over the short, medium or long term,” Arvind Venkat, an emergency physician at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, told the Inquirer.

A March 23 article in the New England Journal of Medicine said removing a patient from a ventilator or ICU bed to give it to others is justifiable and patients should be made aware that it could happen.

"Undoubtedly, withdrawing ventilators or ICU support from patients who arrived earlier to save those with better prognosis will be extremely psychologically traumatic for clinicians — and some clinicians might refuse to do so," the journal said. "However, many guidelines agree that the decision to withdraw a scarce resource to save others is not an act of killing and does not require the patient’s consent. We agree with these guidelines that it is the ethical thing to do."

The journal also recommended that COVID-19 treatment should go first to front-line health care workers and others taking care of ill patients.

"These workers should be given priority not because they are somehow more worthy, but because of their instrumental value: They are essential to pandemic response," the journal said.

New York Presbyterian Hospital began "ventilator sharing," or setting up two patients instead of one on a ventilator, a practice that has been used in crisis situations but may never have been tried before in the United States as a longer-term plan, according to The New York Times.

A group of medical associations released a joint statement Thursday that said ventilators should not be shared with multiple patients because it cannot be done safely with current equipment.

"Even in ideal circumstances, ventilating a single patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome and non-homogenous lung disease is difficult and is associated with a 40%‐60% mortality rate," said the Society of Critical Care Medicine, American Association for Respiratory Care, American Society of Anesthesiologists, Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation, American Association of Critical‐Care Nurses, and American College of Chest Physicians. "It is better to purpose the ventilator to the patient most likely to benefit than fail to prevent, or even cause, the demise of multiple patients."